Best Computer Microphones

Computer microphones are becoming more and more necessary. Some people need it to use in a simpler way (for Skype, gaming, podcasting, etc), others need it for more professional use (voice over, video sound, web conference, event/concert coverage, etc).

As the diversity of uses increases, the same happens to the variety of devices available and some guidance can be very useful to lead us to the best choice.

Best Computer Microphones

That is why we build this guide, to help you choose the best one for your specific case/use, considering its features and advantages.

When it comes the time to choose what to buy, use the detailed information of each computer microphone you will find below, but also have in mind some common factors while shopping:

How will you use itWill you use the usb microphone just occasionally, for some web conversations, or in a regular and professional way? That may be a decisive factor to choose the right one.

Your BudgetAlways something to have in mind to evaluate the investment. Usually, a little more money can get you much more quality, but we have included options for every pocket.

Pickup patternNot all microphones can capture the sound of the same way, so that in consideration the pickup patterns you may need:. Cardioid/Unidirectional is the most common pattern in USB microphones and only records what’s in front of it.. Omnidirectional is the pattern that will pick up sound from all directions (front, back, below and above).. Bi-Directional is the pattern that only record the front and back of its surroundings.

With these considerations in mind, start looking in the detailed information of the best computer microphones.

If you need a microphone to use also on the move and connected to your IOS device, the Shure MV5 is a great option.

Is very light (weighs just over one pound fully assembled), and can plug directly into an iPhone or iPad.

Shure MV5 is considered Apple MFi, which means it is made for iPhone/iPod/iPad and is certified for direct connection to any iOS device without the need for any additional adapters or connection kits

Also made to be highly portable, it measures only 2.5 inches / 7 cm tall (5.5 inches / 14 cm on included stand). As for connections, it includes one MicroB-to-USB cable and one MicroB-to-Lightning cable.

MAIN FEATURES

Apple MFiCertified Ready for direct connection to any iOS device without additional adapters or connection kits.

DSP Preset ModesVocals, Flat and Instrument.

Headphone and CapsuleBuiltIn headphone output for real-time monitoring and custom-tuned microphone capsule to provides the best audio

CONS

A microphone especially recommends for vocals recording, and very simple to use whether you’re in a home studio, a semi-pro or even on a professional environment.

Perfectly compatible with computer or smartphone/ iPad, XIAOKOA Professional offer high-quality recordings and plug directly into your mobile devices. It works with any recording software or communication platform, so you don’t have to download special drivers or tools.

Ideal for recording singing and musical performances in addition to spoken applications such as podcasting and voice-over.

MAIN FEATURES

CompatibilityThe 3.5mm Aux Jack Condenser Microphone Allows you to use the microphone with either laptop or desktop system / Windows or Mac computer.

Dual-Layer FilterTabletop microphone mount comes with a professional dual-layer acoustic filter to prevent from popping and improve vocal recording quality; adjustable distance between the mic and the filter.

Professional Condenser Microphone Allows capturing rich, full-bodied sound from sources that are directly in front of the microphone.

PROS

Plug & Play

Large compatibility

No need to plug in the power supply,

Foldable Tripod

Multifunction

Professional Condenser Microphone

CONS

The microphone is very small compared to what you may expect the size to be (Product Dimensions: 16 x 3.2 x 3.2 cm)

The Samson Go Mic is a portable recording microphone that clips to your laptop and is considered one of the best computer microphone options for a wide array of users

Easy to plug and play microphone to a PC or Mac and start using fast, no drivers needed.

Because of its custom, compact design, the Samson Go Mic can clip right onto your laptop or sit unobtrusively on your desk. And with his high-quality components, you can get remarkably clear audio reproduction.

Has a switchable cardioid and omni polar patterns, so you can pick whichever pattern is more appropriate for your specific situation. The cardioid pickup pattern is good to have when recording a podcast, acoustic guitar or vocals. The omnidirectional is perfect to the pattern to capture an entire room sound.

The Razer Seiren Elite stands out among the best computer microphones out there, especially for those who love gaming.

It’s a versatile multi-pattern USB digital microphone with the recording capabilities of a professional-grade studio set up all in a single plug and play device.

Razer Seiren Elite comes with an aluminum-stabilizing base that is great for recording and streaming in different situations and surroundings. The mic can sits securely on your home or studio desktop without the need of an additional mic stand, making it perfect for recording and streaming.

Has exceptionally high recording resolution (192 kHz and 24-bit) and is worth the budget it requires

MAIN FEATURES

High definition studio-grade recordingWith the use of Shock Mount and Pop Filter (not included). Built into the Razer Seiren are three 14mm custom-tuned condenser capsules in an array that is capable of 4 different recording pattern configurations.

Dedicated recording patterns for multiple applicationsPrepared to be used in streaming, podcasts, voice-overs, instruments, vocals, conference calls, events, interviews or even duets.

This computer microphone is recommended for podcasting, home studio recording, field recording, and voiceover use. Can be used just by plug-and-play, is compatible with both PC and Mac and works with any recording software you are using.

This affordable computer microphone has CD-quality in terms of sound quality and comes with an asymmetrical tripod stand to improve stability.

The Audio-Technica ATR2500 large-diaphragm side-address condenser offers a USB output for recording to your computer, a quality analog-to-digital converter and a headphone output with level control for monitoring.

MAIN FEATURES

Cardioid polar patternReduces pickup of unwanted sounds from the sides and rear, improving the isolation of desired sound source.

This is a very versatile computer microphone that you can use for recording singing and musical performances, as well for podcasting and voice-over.

The device is compatible with recording applications on Windows and Mac computers, as well as the Apple iPad (but in this case but you will need to get a USB connection adapter for that).

Rode NT has a zero-latency stereo headphone monitoring jack, and a premium pop-filter is also included (it fits onto the base of the microphone).

Another interesting accessory included is a stand mount with industry standard 3/8 inch thread, desktop tripod stand that allows the NT-USB to sit at a comfortable height on a tabletop, and a pouch for storage of the microphone when not in use.

CAD Audio continues to build on over 85 years of innovation in the audio industry by delivering useful solutions for performers, engineers and a wide range of audio professionals

This mic USB has a good balance between quality and price and is a good option for small budgets. It features a large cardioid pick-up pattern for good sound isolation, 10dB overload-protection to prevent distortion, and a Bass-reduction switch to give you some more custom options.

The CAD U37 has 2 switches on the front. With the first switch, you can decrease the sensitivity of the microphone so the sound quality is clear for extremely loud sounds. As for the second switch, that one is designed to reduce pickup of deep-bass sounds.

Especially if you don’t want to spend too much on a computer microphone and want to have the guarantee that people will say WOW when they look at your desk. The sexy black durable aluminum alloy metal construction and a gold plate mesh look will ensure that result.

But this computer microphone has much more to offer than style. The AMZtronics condenser microphone with pop filter is ideal for Vocals, Musical Instruments, Broadcasting, Podcasting, Interviews, Voice Recording, Video Conference, Singing over Internet or karaoke, Online Chatting such as Facebook, MSN, Skype, etc.

Check all the potential it has to help you get great audio.

MAIN FEATURES

Plug & Play Just plug the 3.5mm audio cable and USB charging cable to your desktop computer, laptop or notebook, select this microphone as your input device in your software settings, and you are ready to create your own audio.